Page 239 - Reading Between the Sign Intercultural Communication for Sign Language Interpreters

224 Reading Between the Signs

ficiency in ASL to see the language and culture operating in every-
day contexts outside of our interpreting assignments. In order to
become connected in this fashion, we need to find out what op-
portunities exist. There are many avenues to involvement; we can
subscribe to one or more Deaf-related newsletters or chat with
Deaf friends to learn about upcoming events. It may be as simple
as going to a sports or cultural event, or we may pursue some
deeper involvement such as working for a Deaf cause with mem-
bers of the Deaf community.
One factor that may inhibit our seeking this type of involve-
ment could be a fear of bumping into someone for whom we
have interpreted previously in an emotional situation. We might
worry that it would be awkward to see this person again. As Priscilla
points out, however, Deaf people are more used to switching hats,
as they often see each other in different roles and capacities within
the Deaf community. She and Daniel both appreciate interpreters
who come to Deaf events, take part in the community, and mas-
ter the art of switching hats.
Daniel has some caveats, however. If you want to be in a posi-
tion of power, such as on an advisory board or in a Deaf theater
production, he says, wait to be invited by a Deaf person with the
appropriate authority. Be a peer. Support, without taking over.
Sometimes it helps to offer your expertise by enumerating skills
that you think may be of use to the community. Examine your
motives to see if you are interested as a voyeur, because of a sav-
ior complex, or because it lets you feel like a “big fish in a small
pond.” Other Deaf people have expressed resentment at hearing
people who come into the community to learn about its ways,
and when they feel they have learned enough, just seem to leave
without a word.
Convinced that there is no end to learning, Priscilla suggests
that we become involved in different types of activities within the
Deaf community. For example, if a recreational club’s event is
over, try looking into an organization with social or political goals.
In this way, she says, you will meet a variety of Deaf people and
become more aware of the complexity and diversity of the cul-
ture.

Signing All the Time at a Mixed Event
There is one simple thing we can do to broadcast a message of
inclusiveness: when there are Deaf people in the room, sign all

09 MINDESS PMKR 224 10/18/04, 12:03 PM